Drug-Free Youth Program — D-Fy

Dfy photo banner.jpg

 

Drug-Free Youth, also known as D-Fy, is a dynamic community initiative for North Port students in grades 6 through 12 who are committed to making responsible decisions and living a lifestyle free from drugs, alcohol and tobacco. The program supports positive youth development by creating a peer-supported environment where students encourage one another to stay substance-free while embracing healthy, productive living.

With over 13,000 school aged residents in North Port, D-Fy provides meaningful opportunities to lead, mentor and make a positive impact in their schools and across the broader North Port community. Through mentoring programs, high school students support and guide middle schoolers during a pivotal stage of development. Together, they participate in service projects, engaging activities and community events that prove it's possible to have fun while remaining substance-free.

The program rewards students for their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle through exclusive activities, incentive-based opportunities and enriching experiences that reinforce their decision to stay on a positive path. In doing so, D-Fy helps foster a community culture that recognizes and uplifts youth making healthy choices.

The North Port chapter of D-Fy was founded in April 2010 by local residents and teachers. In 2025, North Port Parks & Recreation Department assumed leadership of the program, maintaining close ties with previous organizers to ensure the continuation of its goals and the support of both student and adult volunteers. 

Youth Engagement & Leadership Development

D-Fy actively fosters peer-to-peer support by facilitating mentorship pairings between older and younger members, helping to build continuity and leadership within the program. It also collaborates with local organizations to offer workshops on topics such as decision-making, self-esteem, coping strategies and resisting peer pressure. In addition, D-Fy works alongside the Recreation Division to support teen-focused programs including Teen Talk, Teen Camp, Fit Teen University, and the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program.

Become a member

D-Fy Member Responsibilities:

  • North Port middle and high school students submit a Membership Application and affirm commitment to a drug, alcohol and tobacco-free lifestyle.
  • Obtain a parent/guardian signature to join and participate, to done at time of registration.
  • Complete an initial confidential drug screening at no cost.
  • Consent to random drug screenings during the membership year.
  • Receive a personalized photo ID card upon successful enrollment that can be used for incentives.
  • Abide by Community Center Guidelines while utilizing D-FY Membership.
  • Acknowledge that test results may be shared with the parent/guardian if positive.
  • Understand that a positive test for alcohol, tobacco, or drugs disqualifies the application.
  • Receive re-application options if disqualified.
  • Submit a new application and drug test each year for renewal.
  • Gain access to programming opportunities as established by the Program Coordinator. 

Register today to become a D-Fy member.  Complete the online registration & parent waiver form. 

 

Intake schedule

New member enrollment and screening dates are scheduled throughout the year. Check below for upcoming opportunities to get involved. Screenings are limited and offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

All screenings are held at the Morgan Family Community Center, 6207 W. Price Blvd. from 2:30-4:30 p.m.

2025:

  • Aug. 14
  • Sept. 11
  • Oct. 9
  • Nov. 13
  • Dec. 11

 2026:

  • Jan. 8
  • Feb. 12
  • March 12
  • April 9
  • May 14

 

Help support our D-Fy members

Join us in building a healthier, safer future for North Port youth. We are proud to partner with businesses, organizations and individuals who share our commitment to supporting teens in making positive, drug-free choices. By becoming a sponsor of the Drug-Free Youth (D-Fy) program, you’ll play a vital role in empowering the next generation through mentorship, education and meaningful incentives.

As a sponsor, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Offer exclusive discounts or perks to D-Fy members through their membership card
  • Speak at events or mentor youth on career readiness and life skills
  • Receive recognition for your support at events and in promotional materials
  • Attend our annual D-Fy sponsorship meeting to stay connected and help shape the program’s future

Sponsorships can be financial, in-kind or technical, and we welcome support from both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. All sponsors must align with the City’s values and complete a brief Parks & Recreation Sponsorship Form annually. Sponsorships are welcomed as a way to enhance community offerings, though the City maintains sole discretion over participation in this nonpublic forum in accordance with its sponsorship policy.

To get started, complete an online sponsorship application. Our staff will contact you within 24-business hours to discuss your application and begin next steps.

We appreciate your support!

 


Have questions? For information about the D-Fy program, membership or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kevin Mace, D-Fy Program Coordinator, at 941-396-0636 or KMace@NorthPortFL.gov

 

 

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